Black bear spotted near downtown Myrtle Beach

by WPDE

(Submitted photo)

Myrtle Beach, S.C. (WPDE) —

A bear was spotted in a urban area of Myrtle Beach on Wednesday morning and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Myrtle Beach police are working to find it and safely move it to another location.

The black bear was seen near Carver Street and a DNR official estimates that it is around 220 pounds. It is believed to be hiding in a wooded area, though officers can't see the bear due to the thick brush, according to Captain Joey Crosby.

The Myrtle Beach Police Department is asking anyone who lives or works in that are to "be cautious while outside today," Crosby said.

"We encourage the public to contact the police department if they see the bear, and please under no circumstances do not attempt to approach the bear," he said.